The goal of the program is to give contractors the information and tools they need to find the right subcontractor bidders, to identify risk, and to mitigate the damage associated with default. AGC member general contractors will get access to a state-of-the-art online application that will allow them to more efficiently and cost-effectively prequalify vendors and manage their information. The form within the standard application is based on the industry-standard ConsensusDocs Subcontractor Statement of Qualification Form 721.

iSqFt President and CEO Dave Conway understands the challenges facing general contractors regarding subcontractor default, and knew that iSqFt could use its longstanding relationship with The AGC to address the problem. “The development time and resources involved in creating this have been substantial, obviously. But we–The AGC and [iSqFt]–have a history of online innovation, and we felt this issue was important to resolve, which is why iSqFt chose to absorb the cost.”

Conway goes on to express confidence that this new solution will be embraced. “This isn’t just for GCs. We’ve included benefits for subcontractors, so there’s something in it for everyone. It’s important to our customers and it’s important to the industry.”

This new application does indeed have benefits for more than just GCs. Subcontractors who receive requests from general contractors using the application can respond to any requests they receive for free, and in a format that’s easier for all involved to manage. Subcontractor subscribers will also be able to manage and save a centralized form that will allow them to fill out the standard form one time and securely share their information with any general contractor that requests it. That will save them from having to repetitively fill out a form from scratch for multiple general contractors, which will save them time.

Dave Lukens, COO of the AGC, is clear about the benefits this new and innovative solution will offer AGC members. “This isn’t just about efficiency, and it’s not just about protection. It’s both, and it offers both to nearly everyone involved in a project. This kind of thing, these kinds of tools and new ideas, is what we work hard to offer our members, and I’m very pleased to be able to work with iSqFt to offer it.”

AGC member general contractors interested in learning more about how to gain access to the iSqFt online prequalification management application and how it can help them work more efficiently can visit www.isqft.com/AGC-Prequalification.

About iSqFt
iSqFt is a leading software-as-a-service company, serving the commercial construction industry by offering its subscribers access to a network that connects tens of thousands of general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and manufacturers. iSqFt helps its customers thrive by offering the information and tools they need to work more efficiently and profitably.

Founded in 1993 as Construction Software Technologies, Inc., Cincinnati-based iSqFt serves as strategic partner for the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and local AGC chapters. iSqFt is also a proud member of the U.S. Green Building Council, and is committed to the practices of sustainable design and construction.

iSqFt has twice been included in Inc. magazine’s list of fastest growing private companies, and has been named one of the Business Courier’s “Best Places to Work” four consecutive years.

For more information about iSqFt and its applications, visit www.isqft.com or follow us on Twitter.

About AGC
Located in the Metropolitan Washington, DC area, The Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) is the leading association for the construction industry. Operating in partnership with its nationwide network of 95 chartered Chapters, AGC provides a full range of services satisfying the needs and concerns of its members, thereby improving the quality of construction and protecting the public interest.

AGC was established in 1918 after a request by President Woodrow Wilson. Wilson recognized the construction industry’s national importance and desired a partner with which the government could discuss and plan for the advancement of the nation. AGC has been fulfilling that mission for the last 90 years.

A full service national trade association with a nationwide network of exceptional chapters, AGC represents nearly 30,000 leading firms in the industry – including general contractors, specialty contractors and service providers and suppliers. AGC members play a powerful role in sustaining economic growth, in addition to producing structures that add to productivity and the nation’s quality of life. AGC is truly the “voice and choice” of the construction industry.

By providing access to the prequalification form through its application–the first service of its kind to do so–iSqFt hopes to transform the user’s experience by centralizing the information and allowing it to be more dynamic.  For subcontractor subscribers, that means that rather than repetitively filling out a form from scratch for multiple projects, they can fill out the ConsensusDocs 721 once and securely share with multiple general contractors that they have granted access.  Contractors and owners can then use the information more efficiently by integrating the information with the bid or negotiation process. The new application allows much of the information from tens of thousands of iSqFt subcontractor subscribers who have provided prequalification information through iSqFt’s online tool to be pre-populated, offering significant time-savings.

“We believe the ConsensusDocs standards are a great addition to our application. We incorporated them into an easy-to-use online platform,” says iSqFt President and CEO Dave Conway. He explains that in spite of a host of technological improvements in recent years, many GCs are still creating prequalification forms from scratch, and they’re still asking their vendors to fill them out by hand, or as a PDF. “That’s incredibly inefficient, for both the GCs and their subs.”

Brian Perlberg, Executive Director and Counsel of ConsensusDocs, adds that, “ConsensusDocs’ mission is to improve the design and construction industry by identifying and utilizing best practices. The iSqFt Prequalification Management Application will bring efficiency in the prequalification process.  We’re happy to provide free access to the content of ConsensusDocs prequalification statements for this positive industry development.”

Those interested in learning more about how to gain access to iSqFt’s new tool and how it can help them work more efficiently, can visit www.isqft.com or call 800-364-2059.

About iSqFt
iSqFt is a leading software-as-a-service company, serving the commercial construction industry by offering its subscribers access to a network that connects tens of thousands of general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and manufacturers. iSqFt helps its customers thrive by offering the information and tools they need to work more efficiently and profitably.

Founded in 1993 as Construction Software Technologies, Inc., Cincinnati-based iSqFt serves as strategic partner for the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and local AGC chapters. iSqFt is also a proud member of the U.S. Green Building Council, and is committed to the practices of sustainable design and construction.

iSqFt has twice been included in Inc. magazine’s list of fastest growing private companies, and has been named one of the Business Courier’s “Best Places to Work” four consecutive years.

For more information about iSqFt and its applications, visit www.isqft.com or follow us on Twitter.

ConsensusDocs offers the only standard contracts written and endorsed by 38 leading design and construction industry associations. For more information, visit www.ConsensusDocs.org.

“I don’t think the importance of the AGC’s role in our success can be overstated,” says iSqFt President and CEO Dave Conway. “Being selected, from over 200 contenders, as their strategic partner, put us on the map back in 2001. That was huge for us.”

AGC of America’s chief executive officer Steve Sandherr said of the association’s partnership with iSqFt, “This partnership allows us to provide even more value to our members across the country. That is because our members know that iSqFt will give them what they need to stay competitive.”

Both Conway and Sandherr say that their partnership has been mutually beneficial, and Conway goes on to make the point that history matters. “Eleven years may not sound like a really long time, but back then, this was a brand-new idea. Everyone–and I do mean everyone–was still shipping and borrowing paper plans. [The AGC] believed in what we were doing and helped us move the industry forward. That’s a really big deal.”

The deal between the two companies will extend their relationship to 2015, and ensure that both will continue to benefit.

About iSqFt
iSqFt is a leading software-as-a-service company, serving the commercial construction industry by offering its subscribers access to a network that connects tens of thousands of general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and manufacturers. iSqFt helps its customers thrive by offering the information and tools they need to work more efficiently and profitably.

Founded in 1993 as Construction Software Technologies, Inc., Cincinnati-based iSqFt serves as strategic partner for the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and local AGC chapters. iSqFt is also a proud member of the U.S. Green Building Council, and is committed to the practices of sustainable design and construction.

iSqFt has twice been included in Inc. magazine’s list of fastest growing private companies, and has been named one of the Business Courier’s “Best Places to Work” four consecutive years.

Main: For more information about iSqFt and its applications, visit www.isqft.com or follow us on Twitter.

iSqFt Contact
Doug Hess
Public Relations
513-645-8004 x8087

The award was established to recognize “The Hispanic-owned businesses that have excelled in their performance during the last year as well as those companies and corporations that have contributed to the development of these businesses.”

But Julian Arcila, Executive Director for the HCAC says it means more than that. “This was a celebration. The Brilliance Award we gave to iSqFt was in recognition of everything they’ve done to support us with training workshops and access to the tools our members need to succeed. Those workshops have helped our members learn not just how to use iSqFt, they’ve also taught [our members] terminology, processes, and the way the industry works. It’s been invaluable and integral to our success.” The Brilliance Award, Arcila says, was to show their appreciation for caring about and investing in the Hispanic community, which contributes so much to the construction business.

Dave Conway, President and CEO of iSqFt, says there’s a good reason iSqFt has been so involved with the HCAC. “I’m well aware of their importance to our industry. And in spite of their large numbers, too many have been marginalized and haven’t had the representation they need. That’s what the HCAC is all about, and we’ve made a conscious effort to support the good work they do.”

Conway also feels strongly that the education and resources available to Hispanic workers need to be expanded. “I know that many Hispanic contractors have suffered the consequences of inadequate training, which could have been provided with something as simple as a pamphlet translated into Spanish. These aren’t monumental, expensive changes, they’re small things that could have a huge impact on the safety and success of the HCAC’s members.”

Arcila understands that his organization has work ahead of it, and hurdles to overcome. But he is hopeful. “iSqFt has been vital to our successes so far, and they’ve been a reliable partner. The Brilliance Award was to honor all they have done in the past, and for giving us a leg up. Whatever comes next, we’re better prepared than ever.”

About iSqFt
iSqFt is a leading software-as-a-service company, serving the commercial construction industry by offering its subscribers access to a network that connects tens of thousands of general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and manufacturers. iSqFt helps its customers thrive by offering the information and tools they need to work more efficiently and profitably.

Founded in 1993 as Construction Software Technologies, Inc., Cincinnati-based iSqFt serves as strategic partner for the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and local AGC chapters. iSqFt is also a proud member of the U.S. Green Building Council, and is committed to the practices of sustainable design and construction.

iSqFt has twice been included in Inc. magazine’s list of fastest growing private companies, and has been named one of the Business Courier’s “Best Places to Work” four consecutive years.

For more information about iSqFt and its applications, visit www.isqft.com or follow us on Twitter.

About HCAC

The Hispanic Contractors Association of the Carolinas (HCAC) is a non-profit 501 (c) 6 established to provide the necessary resources to ensure continuous improvement of its members, promoting long-term success of Hispanic construction companies in the Carolinas. To achieve its objectives, HCAC provides members with valuable services in the areas of education, consulting, corporate and advocacy. HCAC’s membership includes general contractors, subcontractors, construction workers, vendors and equipment suppliers, and corporations related to this industry.

Today HCAC is part of NCHA (National Construction Hispanic Association), the national organization representing the larger Hispanic construction community. NCHA currently consists of 13 local chapters in different states. More information can be found at www.nationalhca.com.

iSqFt Takeoff occupies a unique space in the world of takeoff software in that it’s been specifically designed to work seamlessly with the company’s suite of Web-based tools, based in its iSqFt 10 platform. “Rather than being a standalone product,” says Henry Purdy, iSqFt’s Vice President of Product Management, “we’ve worked hard to make it more of an upgrade to an existing iSqFt 10 account. Anyone looking to work even more effectively and efficiently can add iSqFt Takeoff and do [takeoffs] anytime they’re looking at plans inside the platform. At the end of the day, that means more bids and more jobs.”

Launched in 2010, iSqFt Takeoff incorporated a number of cutting-edge features designed for maximum efficiency and flexibility, and their commitment to maintain that lead has not diminished. “I’ve heard that the lead position in technology isn’t owned, it’s leased,” says Purdy. “Maybe, but we’re confident that the latest updates will show people how serious we are about offering the industry’s best takeoff software.”

Purdy says that this is the most significant upgrade to iSqFt Takeoff since its introduction, and it addresses a number of requests made by its users. “It’s absolutely true that we listen to our customers and try to deliver what they tell us they need. No one knows [what they need] better than they do.”

Here is just a partial list of upgrades users will find when they update their Takeoff software.

Right-click Panning
You can now easily move around a drawing by holding the right mouse button and dragging the cursor around the drawing.

Quicker Document Access
With just a few clicks, getting drawings from iSqFt 10 into your takeoff is now quicker than ever.

Search Layer Database
You can now search your Standard Layer list to find what you’re looking for.

“This is a big deal,” says Purdy, “because it shows that even in the face of incredible success–as iSqFt Takeoff has had–we’re committed to staying on top of our customer’s needs. Not everyone loves change, we all get that, but this kind of stair-stepped, evolutionary approach gives our users the best possible experience and software that never lags behind the industry. That’s something iSqFt is very serious about.”

The new and improved version of iSqFt Takeoff is available now. Those interested in learning more and getting a free trail should call iSqFt at 800-364-2059.

About iSqFt
iSqFt is a leading software-as-a-service company, serving the commercial construction industry by offering its subscribers access to a network that connects tens of thousands of general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and manufacturers. iSqFt helps its customers thrive by offering the information and tools they need to work more efficiently and profitably.

Founded in 1993 as Construction Software Technologies, Inc., Cincinnati-based iSqFt serves as strategic partner for the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and local AGC chapters. iSqFt is also a proud member of the U.S. Green Building Council, and is committed to the practices of sustainable design and construction.

iSqFt has twice been included in Inc. magazine’s list of fastest growing private companies, and has been named one of the Business Courier’s “Best Places to Work” four consecutive years.

Main: For more information about iSqFt and its applications, visit www.isqft.com or follow us on Twitter.

iSqFt Contact:
Doug Hess
Public Relations
513-645-8004 x8087

“I have worked with iSqFt before, and I feel it is an invaluable tool, said Chris Forgey, Preconstruction Director for the Healthcare Division of Panattoni Construction.

Like most general contractors, Panattoni Construction has its specialties. “Panattoni offers a diverse background of general contracting, construction management, and design-build experience of industrial, commercial, healthcare, education, retail, and government projects,” said Forgey. “Our team’s knowledge, skills and experience delivering value has enabled us to enter new markets while retaining and growing our existing client base. On all of our work, our goal is to have a complete understanding of all aspects of a project.”

Finding the right service to help Panattoni Construction manage their projects was approached with the same care and consideration as they put into their work. “Even though I’d used iSqFt before,” says Forgey, “we looked at 13 to 15 services, but iSqFt was the clear winner. Their Coverage Reports, search engine, and intuitive navigation in iSqFt 10 all contributed to our decision. Just being able to see what project documents our invited vendors have looked at is huge for us.”

Forgey says that the company has done an analysis to see how having iSqFt has impacted their efficiency and found that they save over 70 hours every week. “Construction Administrators save about 10 hours per week, Assistant Project Managers about 12 hours, and executive staff about 50 hours” Forgey stated.

Culturally, Panattoni Construction seems to have an advantage in that they readily embrace technology. “We’re constantly looking for new and better ways to do our jobs and serve our customers,” says Forgey. “That’s what iSqFt gives us; it gives us back time and the tools to get the right people in place. That’s a big piece of the puzzle for any GC and it’s why we chose iSqFt.”

iSqFt Contact
Doug Hess
Public Relations
513-645-8004 x8087

About iSqFt
iSqFt is a leading software-as-a-service company, serving the commercial construction industry by offering its subscribers access to a network that connects tens of thousands of general contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and manufacturers. iSqFt helps its customers thrive by offering the information and tools they need to work more efficiently and profitably.

Founded in 1993 as Construction Software Technologies, Inc., Cincinnati-based iSqFt serves as strategic partner for the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and local AGC chapters. iSqFt is also a proud member of the U.S. Green Building Council, and is committed to the practices of sustainable design and construction. 

iSqFt has twice been included in Inc. magazine’s list of fastest growing private companies, and has been named one of the Business Courier’s “Best Places to Work” four consecutive years.

For more information about iSqFt and its applications, visit www.isqft.com or follow us on Twitter.

About Panattoni Construction
Panattoni Construction, Inc offers a diverse background of general contracting, construction management and design-build experience of industrial, commercial, healthcare, education, retail and government projects. In the past 5 years, Panattoni has completed more than 75 million SF of new construction work. In its 25 year history, Panattoni has achieved substantial revenue growth. Our client list is perhaps the greatest tribute to the professionalism and per­formance of the company. We are proud to perform work for owners with whom we have developed lasting relationships, deriving roughly 80% of our work from repeat clients. A privately-held company, Panattoni has worked on projects rang­ing from $250,000 to $80 million. Our market knowledge throughout the coun­try allows us to provide our clients with the best building methods and materials available, at a competitive price. Panattoni’s overall goal is to provide quality, cost efficient projects that leave a positive experience for our clients. 

“I’ve had a lot of people in the industry ask why we chose to move our subcontractors to the new platform first,” says Henry Purdy, Vice President of Product Management for iSqFt. “The simple answer is that it was best for all of our users. The longer answer is that the new profile in iSqFt 10 lets subcontractors provide more information about who they are, what they do, and where they do it. By transitioning general contractors after subs, they have access to better information and can make better, more targeted invitations. That’s one example of many that illustrates why subcontractors had to transition first.”

The new platform has actually been in development for a number of years, and began beta testing in 2009. “Years of planning gave us a pretty good roadmap,” says Purdy, “but the beta period was invaluable because it allowed us to involve and get feedback from our users, and make refinements that have made the difference between good and truly innovative.”

When asked for examples, Purdy demonstrates a number of features he refers to as “differentiators.”

Customizability: “iSqFt 10 is surprisingly customizable, letting you choose what columns you’d like to see, drag them around to change the order, and even the ability to hide tools you’re not using, like the filter panel and project preview pane.”

Web viewer: “One of the things our users told us is that having to download software in order to view plans was inconvenient. That’s one of the reasons we gave iSqFt 10 a Web viewer, which gives users the option to view plans without having to download or maintain anything, or view and download them in PDF, which most users will already have installed.”

Track projects: “The ability to track projects isn’t new for us, but the ability to put projects in other people’s folders, and even see what’s in their folders is a big deal. It’s really a rudimentary project management tool in and of itself.”

Export data: “Because having access to project information on iSqFt isn’t always the most convenient, we’ve made it easy to export that information to an Excel spreadsheet.”

Send RFQ: “Request for quote was designed to make it easy to, well, request a quote from a vendor. But it can also be used to share projects with others.”

Savable searches and filters: “Once users have found a combination of filters and search criteria that give them great results, all they have to do is save them. From then on, using them just takes a couple clicks.”

Auto Search: “This is an optional feature we just added to the application, and the response has been fantastic. It searches specification documents for key words or phrases subscribers have chosen, and it automates the process of finding projects that match their scope of work.”

“I could go on and on. The list of upgrades is long,” says Purdy. “But the thing I’m most proud of is that our customers tell us that iSqFt 10, in spite of its amazing capabilities, is really easy to use. I can think of no higher compliment.”

Greg Hrubes of Lakeside Construction in Forest City, Iowa, agrees that iSqFt 10 has a lot to offer a business like his. “iSqFt with Auto Search is a tremendous time-saver that has allowed me to be more responsive and work more efficiently, doing in minutes what used to take hours.”

iSqFt CEO Dave Conway recognizes that the best Web platform is nice, but not the most important thing. “The platform is just the tool customers use to get to the information we provide, and connect with others in the iSqFt network. It’s got to work right, but it’s the plate, not the dinner; it’s the TV, not the show. The great news for us and our customers is that even as our platform has seen a major upgrade, our project information remains the best in the industry.”

To learn more about iSqFt for Subcontractors, call iSqFt at 800-364-2059 or watch the video.

“This is a very big deal for us,” says Sandra Kuzma, Vice President of Human Resources for iSqFt. “Being nominated for the second year in a row means that we’re getting recognition for doing some really important things right.”

Kuzma takes the health and wellbeing of her associates seriously, and for a variety of reasons. “There are numerous benefits to promoting healthy changes, both personal and professional. The people who choose to make positive steps to improve their health clearly benefit, but so do companies. This isn’t all about dollars and cents, this is about having a staff of people who feel good about themselves. I’ll do anything I can to be an agent for that change.”

iSqFt’s President and CEO, Dave Conway, is often heard telling people that health is a gift. “Look, none of us knows what the future will bring, but there are things we can do–small changes, really–that can make a big difference not only in our longevity, but in our quality of life. That’s important to me personally, and I’ve worked with Sandra to make sure that’s a priority here, too.”

iSqFt has instituted a number of programs to promote better health through diet, exercise, and promotion of weight loss. “This isn’t about handing out pamphlets and pasting up signs,” says Kuzma. “This is about creating a ‘wellness culture’ that touches people multiple times and in multiple ways, and providing the education and tools that will help them make positive changes in their lives.”

The winners of the Healthiest Employers of Greater Cincinnati award will be announced on April 19, 2012.

Archive Search: Now finding archived projects in iSqFt 10 is a snap.

Auto Search: Automatically searches specifications for selected keywords and highlights matches in the project list and daily project updates.

Invitation to bid intention: Cover pages for invitations to bid now let vendors respond on the spot.

Remove recipient: Gives general contractors the ability to remove people from a project at the same time they’re removing them from a transmittal.

Custom Fields in grids: This new feature lets a GC include custom subcontractor data in any grid containing vendor information.

Want to learn more? View all of the iSqFt upgrades or contact us today.

-iSqFt

iSqFt hosts a number of creative fundraisers, including a program that partners with local participating restaurants that agree to donate a percentage of each bill to charity. They also offer candy grams for Valentine’s Day, and host competitive penny wars and chili and salsa contests.

Read more about the 2012 Pillar Award.